Coraline Allusions & Cultural References

When authors refer to other great works, people, and events, it’s usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.

Literary and Philosophical References

  • Portia, character in Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice (2.8)
  • Ophelia, character in Shakespeare's Hamlet (2.8)
  • Madame Arcati, character in Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit (2.59)
  • The Nurse, character in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet (2.59)
  • Lady Bracknell, character in Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest (2.59)
  • The Scottish play, a reference to Macbeth (2.75)
  • "What's in a name?" line from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet (4.91)